Rising Warrior Department Holds Elder Abuse Awareness Event (2025)

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THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 35, No. 07

July 2025

Rising Warrior Department Holds Elder Abuse Awareness Event

The Absentee Shawnee Rising Warrior Department held an Elder Abuse Awareness Event June 20 in the AST Multi-Purpose Building. Elders were treated to lunch, bingo,

prizes and several departments and other agencies promoted the services offered for the elders.

Protecting Ancestral Legacy was the theme and this important event coincides with June being World Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Our Elders are one of our most precious resources and it is always a great day when we get to pay homage to them.

If you would like more information on the Rising Warrior Department, please visit their website, https://www.astribe.com/domestic-violence.

37th Annual Sovereignty Symposium

The 37th Annual Sovereignty Symposium was held June 12-13 at the new OKANA resort in OKC. The AST Executive Committee and AST Veterans Association Commander Jason Bender participated in the opening ceremony.

More than 650 attended the event marking a record-breaking turnout. The Symposium was founded in 1988 by the Oklahoma Supreme Court and is hosted by the Oklahoma City University School of Law. OCU Law Dean/OKC Mayor David Holt hosted the opening ceremony.

The event brings together tribal, state and federal leaders to discuss tribal sovereignty, economic development, health care and preserving cultural heritage.

The keynote speaker was former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. She spoke on the importance of tribal sovereignty “No decisions about us without us.” Haaland

said.

She also called on Oklahoma to require more tribal input on policy decisions.

Left Photo: Front row - AST Veterans Association Commander Jason Bender carries in AST flag. Right Photo L-R: AST Representative Anthony Johnson, AST Governor John

Johnson, AST Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla, AST Secretary Misty McGirt, Treasurer Joseph Blanchard, AST Veterans Association Commander Jason Bender.

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

Hello Tribal Menmbers,

Summer has had a rainy start and the

temperatures seem to be rising each day.

With all this heat moving in, please be

sure to stay hydrated and remember to

check on your elders. Also remember to

check and change your AC filters, this will

help out tremendously.

The Sovereign Symposium this year

was held at the new OKANA Resort in

OKC. The symposiums agenda had several panels listed from Government to

Government, Tribal Healthcare, Economic Development and several other

July 2025

key topics for Indian Country. Also in

attendance was the Honorable Deb Haaland the formal United States Secretary of

Interior. Ms. Haaland gave an amazing

speech as the main panelist for Friday.

With elections going on with some tribes

it was great to see newly elected officials

in attendance. I had a pleasure of meeting

some of them.

I received a call from the new Chairman for Comanche Nation, Mr. Forrest

Tahdooahnippah. Mr. Tahdooahnippah

was very interested in the growth of our

clinic in Little Axe. He wanted as much

information as he could get on how it all

started. He stated that he was very impressed with our tribal health facility and

wanted to build one very similar.

The 4th annual Fishing for Nutrition

had a great turnout. We had many families that came out and enjoyed their time

together. It’s always great to see many

tribal members in attendance at our

events. I look forward to seeing you all

next year.

Should you have any questions please

reach out to my office or you may call my

assistant at the information below.

Thank You

Fishin for Nutrition Friday, June 27, 2025

10am-2pm at I40-9A Earlsboro Exit in

Shawnee. I have been working on a project to assist 70+ yr old, elderly, handicap,

AST Tribal Members who reside in the

AST service area with a 5x7 safe room.

The application states 70+ years of age,

once these applicants are done if funding

allows we will open to the 60+ age group.

Application will be hardcopy and online

June 30, 2025 and if you have any questions reach out to the Lt. Governor’s de-

partment. We will be off for Juneteenth

on Thursday, June 19, 2025 and the EC

meeting was scheduled for Monday, June

23, 2025. June 27, 2025 will mark one

year in the office of Lt. Governor. It is a

learning experience for sure and I spend

a lot of time trying to find ways to assist

the Tribal Members more with something

that will benefit them. I am open to any

input and visits from anyone with advice

or concerns.

of updating the AST Strategic Plan. For

those who are unaware, it has been nearly 15 years since an Executive Committee has approved a Strategic Plan. As

discussed, the new data and long term

goals are very helpful for when the Tribe

or Health submit Grant applications. It

is vital we keep these current as the items

on the checklist are completed and we

can move forward with other projects.

The information provided by members,

staff, and our local residents is beneficial

for the improvements they would like to

see. Unlike the Administration in DC,

we have concerns and want to gain input

to make certain we can prioritize how to

move forward.

In the Department of Interior (DOI)

Consultation at the Oklahoma Supreme

Court building, I was 1 of approximately

20 Tribal leaders attending in person to

represent their respective Nations; online

there were another 185 people logged on.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot to report

because the Interior staff did not have

all the information and expressed they

were initiating dialogue and gathering information. The bad part is we were not

given a date for follow-up. I have asked

Governor Johnson to send an official request to meet with the Indian Affairs staff

at a future date and time, once their lead

official has been approved and confirmed

by the Legislature.

Regarding the two conferences I attended in OKC, the first was for the Native Public Health Resilience grant, hosted by Southern Plains Health Board. It

was a continuance of last month’s Tribal

Leaders Convening, but, this time the

agenda was more specific and covered

“Financial Leadership and Working in

Public Health”. I was able to bring the

information back and share with our

ASTHA Health Board some ideas on how

to improve or make situations better for

our System.

The second event was the Sovereignty

Symposium held at OKANA. There were

several good sessions and we were able to

network with other Tribal governments

in attendance. The major guest speaker

on Friday was former Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland, who happens to be

a Democratic gubernatorial candidate

in her home state of New Mexico. She

provided a passionate speech and observation of how she thinks the State of

Oklahoma should operate, to enrich the

relationships with Tribes and utilize us as

an asset and resource.

The final topic for this month is the

Economic Impact Report, released at the

OK History Center, compiled by OIGA,

Oklahoma City University, and the United for Oklahoma organization. Of the 38

Tribes in Oklahoma, 19 submitted information to be included in their study. The

results can be found at unitedforoklahoma.com website. Here are the 3 key takeaways that Tribal activities support for

our State:

1. 139,860 jobs

2. $7.8 Billion in wages and benefits

to workers

3. $23.4 Billion in state production of

goods and services

the symposium with our office, and we

invited Alyssa to contribute to our newsletter this month. She shared the following words for our newsletter this month:

“Hi, my name is Alyssa Medina, I am

from Anaheim, California and I am a part

of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. I work for

the Representative’s Office this summer

for the Summer Youth Program. It has

been a great start. I chose to work for the

Summer Youth Program for more job experience.”

We welcome Alyssa to our office for

the summer and look forward to working

with her. Should you have any questions

or need any assistance, please contact my

office by phone or email.

John Johnson - 405-275-4030 ext. 3500

governor@astribe.com

Alvina Barnes - 405-275-4030 ext. 3501

alvinab@astribe.com

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Diane Ponkilla, AST Lt. Governor

Hello,

Sending condolences to all that have

lost loved one this month. I do not have

much reporting for the month of June,

majority of the month I was in the office.

I attended the Sovereignty Symposium

on June 12-13, 2025. The Agriculture Department will be having the 4th Annual

TREASURER’S REPORT

Lt. GOVERNOR

Diane Ponkilla

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

Hello Everybody,

I hope you all are doing well and have

had a chance to enjoy summer so far. Recently, it was pointed out and I was surprised to learn it was almost the middle

of June. So let me start by saying, “Happy 4th of July!” Growing up as a child I

remember being at the lake, a ball field,

or at a family cookout eating good food

and popping fireworks. It’s a great time

of year as some of us will now be able to

eat watermelon and cantaloupe. Woo, my

mouth starts to water just thinking about

the taste and smell…mmmm.

Since my last report, here are some of

the things my office has been able to participate in or attended to represent the

Tribe: monthly meetings with Tribal entities and programs; a few business discussions with potential companies wanting

to submit for upcoming RFPs or RFQs;

two Conferences in OKC for Health and

Tribal Government; provided comments

to Daily Oklahoman reporter after the

release of Economic Impact Report; Consultation with DOI; and interviewed by

Media for the June Podcast.

Of these activities, the Podcast is the

one I want to begin with since I talk about

the Economic Development Survey. If

you haven’t seen the video, here are the

important points I wanted to share with

our People. Over the last few years, I’ve

discussed the importance of establishing

new business which creates job opportunities for Tribal Members; expansion of

current programs and new services; and

increase in tax revenue. This also helps

our community by providing new locations for entertainment and dining.

Additionally, I touched on the value

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

Anthony Johnson, AST Representative

REPRESENTATIVE

Anthony Johnson

Hello Tribal Members,

Congratulations to all of our recent

graduates in May. My office has been

busy assisting with the summer camps

our tribe hosts, the past month. June 12

and June 13, my office attended the Sovereignty Symposium at the new Okana waterpark in Oklahoma City. Our summer

youth worker, Alyssa Medina attended

Ne yi wa

As I conclude this edition, I hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July. I

want to give a quick shout-out to our Veterans as we celebrate the holiday. Also,

I appreciate the support, advice, and encouragement as we continue our trek

down this sometimes bumpy road. See ya

next month.

Neyiwa!

Joseph H. Blanchard

Phone: (405) 531-3512

Email: adjohnson@astribe.com

Sincerely,

Anthony “Tadpole” Johnson

Tribal Representative

July 2025

www.astribe.com 3A

AST 477

Program

PARENT

COMMITTEE

MEETING

Learn about the program and the

parental rights to be engaged in

your child's education.

Meet other parents

Get your questions answered

Discuss important information

Attendees must be a Parent or Guardian of student(s) eligible for the AST 477

Youth Education Training services who attends one of our eleven (11) school

districts: Asher, Bethel, Dale, Earlsboro, Little Axe, Macomb, Maud, Noble, South

Rock Creek, Tecumseh, and Wanette.

6th

AUGUST 2025

6:00 -7:30 PM

AST Multipurpose

Building

*Note: Youth not enrolled in one of the above listed school districts must get a letter from the other Tribal 477 Programs

stating they are not otherwise being serviced to receive assistance. The 477 Program staff can assist you with who to

contact to get this letter.

Call Us:

(405) 878-4545

Meeting Location:

2029 James L. Edwards Ln, Shawnee, OK

74801

Jim Thorpe Sports Performance Camp May 30

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was a sponsor for the Jim Thorpe Sports Performance Camp May 30. The event was at the Jim Thorpe Stadium.

Tribal Judge Vacancy

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is accepting

applications for the position of Supreme Court Judge of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribal Court. Minimum qualification for

said Judge is: must be an enrolled member of the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe or the parent, child, or spouse of an enrolled

member of the Tribe, or domiciled within the territorial

jurisdiction of the Tribe, or an attorney; or a lay advocate

who has regularly practiced before the Court as a member of

the Bar of the Court for a period of five years; or an Indian

graduate of an American Bar Association law school or a

paralegal program approved by the Supreme Courts.

Please submit resumes to Absentee Shawnee Tribe of

Oklahoma Attn: HR Director, 2025 S. Gordon Cooper,

Shawnee, OK. 74801 or Email: HR@astribe.com, Fax: 405395-0534.

July 2025

4A www.astribe.com

477 Summer Youth Work Program

It’s summertime at the AST complex and that means summer

youth workers are here. The summer youth program is open to

any native youth 477 participant ages 14-24.

During the eight-week program the summer youth learn

valuable skills such as customer service, interviewing, resume

help and on the job training. The 34 youth are currently working

in 16 different programs throughout the AST complex, AST

Health and AST Housing Authority.

Several of the AST 477 staff were summer youth workers.

477 Executive Director Briana Ponkilla even got her start as a

summer youth worker at the tribal store.

Left Photo: 477 summer youth worker Thomas Jim III works in the AST Tax Commission office. Right Photo: 477 summer youth/tribal member Erika Blanchard works at

Building Blocks III. Top Right Photo: 477 summer youth pose for a picture.

Adult Services

Need help with

reinstatement

fees?

Need Job

Training?

AST

477

Help with

GED/HS

Diploma?

Need

assistance

with clothes

for new job?

QUESTIONS?

ONLINE APP:

Youth Services

Need

Behavioral

Health

Services?

Unemployed

Underemployed?

AST

477

Help with

GED/HS

Diploma?

Need small

business

assistance?

Need

assistance

for clothes

with new

job?

Assistance

with

Drivers Ed?

Tutoring

Extracurricular

Expenses

Need

education

assistance?

Homeless?

Need

Childcare?

Child need

school

supplies?

(JOM)

Need

education

assistance?

Tuition

Assistance

Need help

finding a

job?

Graduation

Expenses

NOT INCOME BASED

OPEN TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS

NOT INCOME BASED

OPEN TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS

The 477 Program is designed to provide resources and support to

help individuals and families become economically self-sufficient

while reducing the need for short-term social service intervention.

The 477 Program is designed to provide resources and support to

help individuals and families become economically self-sufficient

while reducing the need for short-term social service intervention.

421 N. Beard St. Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-4545 | 477program@astribe.com

https://www.astribe.com/477-program

*Must reside in Cleveland, McClain, Oklahoma or Pottawatomie Counties

n fo !

Sca cation

*Tribal ID Required

QUESTIONS?

ONLINE APP:

214 N. Oklahoma St. Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-4545 | 477program@astribe.com

https://www.astribe.com/477-program

n fo !

Sca cation

*Must reside in Cleveland, McClain, Oklahoma or Pottawatomie Counties

*Tribal ID Required

New podcast episode –

The Power of Tribal Voices

Welcome to another insightful

episode of "Among the Shawnee" where

Mindy Longhorn Media Director for

the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, sits down

with Treasurer Blanchard. The episode

kicks off by highlighting the Economic

Development survey introduced at

General Council. Treasurer Blanchard

also discusses the tribe's efforts in

strategic planning.

Subscribe to our channel, Absentee

Shawnee Tribe to watch. Podcast is

also still available on Apple, Spotify,

SoundCloud and the Absentee Shawnee

Tribe website.

NOT IC E

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

Please give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or send an email to media@astribe.com

All articles for the next month’s issue are DUE by the 15th of the current month.

Unfortunately we can only accept ONE PICTURE PER BIRTHDAY PERSON, not per birthday wish.

July 2025

www.astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

(405)878-0633 FAX(405)878-0156

Thanks to all of Building Blocks wonderful Dads for joining us for

Donuts with Dads on June 13th. We appreciate them for joining

Building Blocks in celebrating Father’s Day.

We are currently hiring staff, if you are interested in applying visit

https://www.astribe.com/employment for applications and to see

what positions are available.

Building Blocks is accepting waiting list applications for all of our ages;

6 weeks through Pre-K/4 Year Olds. If you are interested in getting

your child on our waiting list please call and we can email you a

waiting list application or you may stop by to fill one out.

Summertime means that Building Blocks children get to play on the

Splash Pad! They have lots of fun playing in the water and cooling off.

Summertime heat has arrived and it’s going to get hotter. Remember

when doing outside activities to hydrate by drinking lots of cool

water. Also, regularly apply sunscreen

when in the sun and in water activities.

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

16051 Little Axe Dr.

Norman, OK 73026

(405)360-2710

For Multiple Positions

Please call for more information or log onto

www.astribe.com

Building Blocks will be closed Thursday,

July 3rd & Friday, July 4th in observance of

Independence Day.

Enjoy the Summer & Have a Safe July!

4th Annual Day of Champions Sports Camp

The first week was busy for individuals ages 6-18 in the Little Axe community. The weather tried to damper the camp. The access to an inside facility, coaches

and volunteer staff that were able to adapt and adjust 82 campers learned a lot and had a lot of fun!

The Day of Champions 4 main principles are Discipline, Respect, Trust and Hard Work. The campers learned the principles, sport specific drills, everyday

foods/sometimes foods, and how much sugar are in the drinks we drink.

Jayden Watson was a terrific speaker at the camp and made an impact on the campers. Beverly Felton helped get an indoor facility so that camp could continue

even in the wet conditions. The Public Health department were very helpful! Trina Foley, Courtney Cozard, Justis Sanchez, and the Clinic Summer Interns made

the camp run so smoothly with all the hard work, sandwich making, and refilling water jugs!!

Thank you to the Executive Community for the support of this camp! The smiles on the campers faces at the end of camp was proof that it was a FANTASTIC

two days!!

6A www.astribe.com

July 2025

www.astribe.com

Celebrating Excellence: Kanynn Kaseca Awarded

Prestigious Cobell Scholarship

We are thrilled to announce that Kanynn Kaseca, an outstanding

senior from Shawnee High School and a proud member of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe, has been awarded

the highly competitive Cobell

Undergraduate Scholarship—a

distinguished honor for Indigenous scholars.

Established in 1996 as a part of the

landmark Cobell settlement, the Cobell Scholarship is administered by

Indigenous Education, Inc. It offers merit-based support to enrolled

members of federally recognized Tribes pursuing higher education.

Since its inception, the program has provided over $35 million in

scholarships to more than 4,000 Native American students attending

over 400 colleges and

universities

(globenewswire.com).

The Cobell Scholarship selection process is

rigorous—only about 28% of applicants receive

funding each year (cobellscholar.org). This is a

testament to its selectivity and prestige, making

Kanynn’s achievement all the more extraordinary.

Kanynn, who recently graduated as valedictorian and Senior Class President, will attend

Northeastern State University in the fall, pursuing a major in psychology with a pre-med focus

and competing as part of the Lady RiverHawks golf team. Her strong academic record,

leadership, and commitment to serving Native communities reflect exactly the qualities the

Cobell Scholarship aims to support.

Her selection as a Cobell scholar not only recognizes her achievements but also highlights the

resilience and excellence of the Absentee Shawnee community. As Kanynn moves forward in

her academic journey, we proudly celebrate her success and look forward to the meaningful

impact she will have on future Native generations.

Congratulations, Kanynn—your accomplishment

makes our Tribe shine brighter!

HAPPY JULY 4TH!

Celebrating the

red, white, and

blue can take

some green.

Our branches will be closed in

celebration of Independence Day

on Friday, July 4th, but our website

and ATMs will be open. Branches

will re-open on Monday, July 7th.

To learn more, visit your local

branch or our website.

2023 Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 273-0202

www.anbok.bank

Joseph Crossley, 79, of Shawnee, Oklahoma passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

He is a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.

Joseph was born in Wichita, KS on November 11, 1945 and graduated from Rose Hill High School in 1963.

In January 1963 he joined the Navy, received an Honorable discharge then in August 1966 went on to attend

college at Wichita State University earning his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering in 1973 and his

Master of Business Administration in 1975. Shortly after he completed his degrees he started a family and

moved to Texas. In Texas he worked for Texas Instruments. He was able to retire from T.I. at an early age and

moved to Shawnee, OK.

He was preceded in death by - his parents, Basil and Eleanor Crossley of Bethel Acres, OK; His sister-in-law

Tessie Crossley, sister Ruth Harder and brother Orin Crossley.

He is survived in passing by his brother Burton Crossley of Elmo, Tx and his sister Rachel Crossley of Choctaw,

OK – along with his four children, Son, Jesse Crossley & wife Narda Crossley and their children Ricardo and

Lennox Daughter Caroline Crossley & Bryan Suhy and their children Caelin, Brody, and Eleanor Daughter

Cathleen Crossley & husband Mason Riley and their children Wren and Jean-Michel Son John Crossley &

Megan Kinney; and other extended family members and friends.

Joseph was a son, a brother, a cousin, a nephew, an uncle, a father and a grandfather.

He will be missed.

July 2025

8A www.astribe.com

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Thursday, July 3rd - at 12 pm

Friday, July 4th - Independence Day

www.asthealth.org

July 2025

Section B

ASTHS July 2025 Monthly Update

Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

Juvenile Arthritis (JA) affects hundreds of thousands of kids and teens in the

United States.

Juvenile arthritis, also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, isn’t a specific disease. It’s an umbrella term to describe the inflammatory and rheumatic diseases

that develop in children under the age of 16. These conditions affect hundreds of

thousands of kids and teens in the United States

Most kinds of JA are autoimmune or auto-inflammatory diseases. That means

the immune system, which is supposed to fight against foreign invaders like viruses

and germs, instead releases inflammatory chemicals that attack healthy cells and

tissue. In most JA cases this causes joint inflammation, swelling, pain and tenderness, but some types of JA have few or no joint symptoms or only affect the skin

and internal organs.

The exact causes of JA are unknown, but researchers believe that certain genes

may cause JA when activated by a virus, bacteria or other external factors. There is

no evidence that foods, toxins, allergies or lack of vitamins cause the disease.

JA Health Effects:

Here are some of the symptoms and health effects of JA:

•

Joints: May cause joints to look red or swollen and feel stiff, painful, tender

and warm. This can cause difficultly moving or completing everyday tasks.

Joint symptoms may worsen after waking up or staying in one position too

long.

Skin: Skin symptoms may include a scaly red rash (psoriatic), light spotted

pink rash (systemic), butterfly shaped rash across the bridge of the nose and

cheeks (lupus) or thick, hardened patches of skin (scleroderma).

Eyes: Dryness, pain, redness, sensitivity to light and trouble seeing properly

caused by uveitis (chronic eye inflammation).

Internal organs: Can affect internal organs such as the digestive tract (diarrhea and bloating), lungs (shortness of breath) and heart.

Other symptoms: Include fatigue (feeling extremely tired or rundown), appetite loss and high spiking fever.

•

Diagnosis:

A pediatrician may start to determine what’s causing symptoms, but parents may

be referred to a rheumatologist, a doctor with specialized training in treating arthritis. Some rheumatologists treat only children, while others treat only adults,

and others treat both.

The doctor will ask questions about the child’s medical history, when symptoms

started, how long they have lasted and about the child’s family history. He or she

will also perform a physical exam to look for signs of JA, like limited range of motion, rash, eye symptoms and joint swelling, tenderness and pain.

Diagnostic tests include laboratory tests that look for inflammatory markers and

imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs) to look for signs of joint damage and help rule

out other causes, like trauma or infection.

•

Every child with JA is different, and treatment depends on disease severity and

type. The doctor may start with a modest approach, beginning with NSAIDs, analgesics and/or one type of DMARD (usually methotrexate), or choose a more aggressive approach that involves starting with a biologic or DMARD-biologic combo to combat inflammation as quickly as possible. These days, most doctors prefer

early, aggressive treatment to slow disease progression rather watchful waiting. As

doctors monitor the disease, drugs may be added or removed.

Surgery:

Most children with JA will never need surgery, but joint replacement can help

kids with severe pain or joint damage. Many procedures may be performed on an

outpatient basis.

Non-drug therapies:

Exercise. Regular exercise is key to managing joint stiffness and pain. Low-impact and joint-friendly activities like walking, swimming, biking and yoga are best,

but kids with well-controlled disease can participate in just about any activity they

wish, if their doctor or physical therapist approves. On tough days, it’s important

to balance light activity with rest. Taking breaks throughout the day protects joints

and preserves energy.

Physical Therapies and Assistive Devices:

Physical therapy and occupational therapy can improve a child’s quality of life by

teaching them ways to stay active and how to perform daily tasks with ease. Here

are some other ways physical and occupational therapists can help a child with JA:

•

Treatments:

There is no cure for JA, but with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, remission (little or no disease activity or symptoms) is possible.

The goals of JA treatment are to:

•

Teach and guide them through strengthening and flexibility exercises.

Help improve balance and coordination.

Perform body manipulation.

Prescribe and show kids how to use assistive devices (e.g. braces, splints,

hand grips.

Self-Care:

It’s important that children and teens make healthy lifestyle choices and use complementary therapies to manage the pain and stress of arthritis. These include:

•

Types of JA:

The most common types of JA include:

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common

form of juvenile arthritis and includes six types: oligoarthritis, polyarthritis, systemic, enthesitis-related, juvenile psoriatic arthritis and undifferentiated.

Juvenile myositis. An inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness. There

are two types: Juvenile polymyositis and juvenile dermatomyositis, which also

causes rash on the eyelids and knuckles.

Juvenile lupus. An autoimmune disease that can affect the joints, skin, internal

organs (i.e. heart, kidneys, lungs) and other areas of the body. The most common

form is systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE.

Juvenile scleroderma. Scleroderma, which literally means “hard skin,” describes

a group of conditions that causes the skin to tighten and harden.

Vasculitis. This type of disease causes inflammation of the blood-vessels, which

can lead to heart complications. Kawasaki disease and Henoch-Schonlein purpura

(HCP) are the most common kinds in kids and teens.

Fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that can cause widespread muscle pain and stiffness, along with fatigue, disrupted sleep and other

symptoms. It is more common in girls but rarely diagnosed before puberty.

which includes traditional DMARDS (methotrexate, sulfasalazine) and biologics, relieve symptoms by suppressing the immune system so it doesn’t

attack the joints. Methotrexate is the most commonly used DMARD to

treat JA. Traditional DMARDs may be available in pill form, but biologics

are injected or given by infusion in a doctor’s office.

Drugs that relieve symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

(NSAIDs) and analgesics (pain relievers) relieve pain but cannot reduce

joint damage or change the course of the disease. These medications are

available over the counter or by prescription.

•

Healthy eating. Eating some foods, like those found in the Mediterranean

diet (i.e. fatty fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and extra virgin olive oil),

and avoiding others (high-fat, sugary and processed foods) may help curb

inflammation.

Hot and cold therapies. Heat treatments, such as heat pads or warm baths,

work best for soothing stiff joints and tired muscles. Cold is best for acute

pain. It can numb painful areas and reduce inflammation.

Topicals. Creams, gels or stick-on patches can ease the pain in a joint or

muscle. Some contain the same medicine that’s in a pill, and others use ingredients that irritate nerves to distract from pain.

Mind-Body Therapies. Meditation, deep breathing, distraction techniques

(listening to music or reading) and practicing visualization can help relax

and divert attention away from pain, especially during shot time.

Massage and Acupunture. Massage may help reduce pain and ease stress

or anxiety. Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into the body along

special points to relieve pain. If there’s a fear of needles, acupressure, which

uses firm pressure, may be used instead.

Supplements. The use of supplements is rarely studied in children, but some

supplements that help adults may help children, too. Ask a doctor about

which supplements and vitamins may be helpful and which ones may cause

side effects and medication interactions.

Stress and Emotions. Kids and teens with chronic diseases are more likely

to get depressed. Therapists and psychologists can help kids deal with tough

emotions and teach positive coping strategies. A strong support system of

friends and family can also provide emotional support during tough times.

If you are concerned about your child and need to find out more about juvenile

arthritis, contact your child’s primary care provider for an appointment.

Slow down or stop inflammation and prevent disease progression.

Relieve symptoms, control pain and improve quality of life.

Prevent or avoid joint and organ damage.

Preserve joint function and mobility for adulthood.

Reduce long-term health effects.

References: Arthritis Foundation (2024). Juvenile Arthritis (JA). https://www.arthritis.org/

diseases/juvenile-arthritis

A well-rounded plan includes medication, physical activity, acupuncture, massage, mind-body therapies) and healthy eating habits.

Shawnee Health Center

Medications:

There are several kinds of medications used to treat JA. Some control disease

activity and others relieve symptoms. Drugs that control disease activity include

corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

•

Corticosteroids. These quick-acting, anti-inflammatory drugs are given by

injection in a doctor’s office. They are typically used to manage disease

until other medications start working because of side effects.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). This class of drugs,

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC!

39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake)

Groundbreaking held Mar 19, 2025 (Anticipate completion in late 2026)

June 2025 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Kelsea Hasbell, Medical Assistant

Team of the Month: Annual Wellness Team

Special Leadership Award: Mark Scott, Lead Fitness Specialist

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

July 2025

2B www.astribe.com

Health observances of the month:

Healthy

month

Healthy

MONDAY

Note

For additional

details on closures

and events please

visit asthealth.org or

our Facebook page facebook.com/AST

Health

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Closed at NOON

Pharmacy and

PlusCare re-opens at

5pm

Closed at NOON

TOWNHALL DAY

MONTH

FRIDAY

Closed

Juvenile

Arthritis

Awareness

Month

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Elder’s Thursday

Fun Day - Little

Axe Resource

Center

Car

Seat

Safety Check

10am-3pm

AST Multi-purpose

Building, Shawnee

Little Axe Health Center

2pm-6pm

Elder’s Thursday

Fun Day - AST

Complex Center

July 2025

www.astribe.com

MONDAY

TUESDAY

BEEF FINGERS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

VEGGIES

BREAD/PUDDING

KRAUT & WEINERS

GREEN BEANS

BREAD

MIXED FRUIT

HOT HAM & CHEZ

SANDWICH

CHIPS

APRICOTS

LEMON PEPPER

CHICKEN

RICE

VEGGIES/CUTIE

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

BEEF TIPS & NOODLES

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

ROLL

PEACHES

CHICKEN POT PIE

VEGGIES

BISCUIT

PEARS

CHICKEN STRIPS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

CAULIFLOWER

FLUFF

FRITO CHILI PIE

CHEZ, ONIONS

PEACHES

TUNA SANDWICH

CHIPS

MANDARIN ORANGES

BAKED POTATO

CHEZ,ONIONS,HAM

BROCCOLI & CHEZ

PUDDING

GRILLED CHEZ

SANDWICH

CHICKEN NOODLE

SOUP

CHEF SALAD

W HAM

COTTAGE CHEESE

PINEAPPLES

SPAGHETTI W MEAT

SAUCE

PEAS N CARROTS

SALAD BAR*

HOAGIE SANDWICH

MAC SALAD

CEREAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

TAMALE

REFRIED BEANS

SPANISH RICE

CINNAMON ROLL

BEANS

SPINACH

CORNBREAD

CHICKEN, BROCCOLI

RICE CASSEROLE

BEETS

ROLL/PEARS

TAMALE

REFRIED BEANS

CHIPS/SALSA

MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH IS SERVED FROM 11 AM TO 1PM

BREAKFAST IS SERVED FROM 9AM TO 11AM

FRIDAY

INDEPENDENCE

DAY

FRENCH TOAST

SAUSAGE PATTIES

FRUIT

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

BAGEL

CREAM CHEZ

GRAPES

202

SERVING AT THE SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

HEALTH BUZZZ!!

MUSIC AND THE BRAIN:

A PATHWAY TO UNLOCKING STORED MEMORIES

DID YOU KNOW THAT MUSIC CAN UNLOCK PARTS OF THE BRAIN THAT STRUGGLE WITH MEMORY?

Recent studies have revealed that the link between music and memory is a powerful tool in recalling memories, reducing agitation, an increase in appetite,

and a boost in overall mood that can have a lasting effect up to a couple hours after the music is put away. This is because music engages multiple areas of

the brain where memories form, and auditory and emotional processing occur. In regards to Alzheimer’s, musical memories are typical the last memories to

fade in patients, emphasizing the significant connection between music and memory.

Our Dementia Care Team at the AST Health System offers therapeutic Music & Memory kits and training for both patients and their caregivers to help

manage stress, reduce agitation, and trigger positive emotional responses and memories, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort.

We believe that a personalized playlist from a person’s most meaningful years plays a huge role in the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s or other types

of dementia by momentarily restoring back to them a sense of self and personal history.

If you are a caregiver and would like to receive more information about our Music & Memory Program, please reach out to us and schedule a session.

Benefits of Music Therapy

•

Improved Mood

Reduced Caregiver Stress

Encourages Physical Activity

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Improving Sleep

“Music evokes Emotion, and Emotion can bring with it Memory… it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.” This quote by well-known British

neurologist, Oliver Sacks (author of Awakenings), shows the power of music. Indeed, like the aroma of cookies baking, a familiar song can bring us back to

another time.

Below are two photos of our Music & Memory participant, Sue Sanchez. Thank you Sue and Sylvester Sanchez for allowing us to share your photos with

our communities!

Sue Sanchez—first time listening to her music!

Sue Sanchez—loving her music!

If you or someone you know would benefit from the Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country or Music & Memory programs, contact adpi@astribe.com, or call

405-701-7906.

Check out our web-page on the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System’s website, asthealth.org, click on “Programs and Preventions” and then click on

“Seeking Hope”. You can sign up on line also!

Lacy Gillean, CDCS

Dementia Care Specialist

(405) 701-7906

July 2025

4B www.astribe.com

Wi Si Ka To Wi – Be Well, TOR Grant Project

Thursday, May 15th, 2025, the Wi Si Ka To Wi – Be Well, TOR Grant Project, along with Diabetes and Wellness and Ensuring Hope held a Spring Into Prevention

Walk at the Little Axe Resource Center. Participants had the opportunity to walk the big trail loop or the mini trail loop. The mini trail loop was geared towards

mature people or people with disabilities. Along the trail there were signs posted to boost awareness of mental health to promote the Substance Abuse and

Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Prevention Week. Walking is one way to boost your mental health. Check with Diabetes & Wellness about

the services they offer to increase your physical health, which increases your mental health too! The Ensuring Hope – (SPF-PFS Grant) disseminated a survey

to gather responses regarding community knowledge of substance use and usage. For completing the survey, participants receive a $25 WalMart gift card.

This survey will be ongoing until at least September 2025 and available at events where Ensuring Hope has a booth.

Saturday, June 7th, 2025, Wi Si Ka To Wi – Be Well, TOR Grant Project, along with community partners: Native Connections, Indian Child Welfare, Domestic

Violence, 477, Ensuring Hope – came together to support a community event, Celebrate Community Protective Factors. Protective factors are our community

strengths. This event brought attention to the positive things going on in our community and some of the tribal programs available that can help strengthen

community. Courtney Yarholar, served as the moderator and speaker on community strengths. Charlie Hayes offered his DJ services. And featured in

this event was a children’s program. Each child carried a message about how we can all make a difference for each child in our community. The balloon

decorations were from Balloon Therapy which the children loved. The children were asked what they wanted to be when they grow up. Responses ranged

from a zookeeper to a McDonald’s worker to an activist/singer. Let’s help all our children achieve their dreams. This event was held at the event space at the

Thunderbird Casino in Little Axe.

We have a little free library here at the Little Axe Resource Center. Come take a look and take a book home with you!

Native Connections

AST Indian Child Welfare

Wi Si Ka To Wi – Be Well, TOR Grant Project

Ensuring Hope

AST Domestic Violence Program

AST 477 Program

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.